10 Outsiders to Watch at The Open 2025
By: Derek Clements | Edited: Fri 01 Aug 2025
Share this article:
There are many obvious contenders at Royal Portrush but here we look at 10 golfers who could write a few headlines of their own.
Harry Hall
Sitting comfortably within the top 50 in the FedEx Cup standings and is a PGA Tour winner but still had to come through qualifying - and did so in some style.
Aaron Rai
Goes about his business with the minimum of fuss but has established himself on the PGA Tour and makes a lot of cuts.
Lee Westwood
Now clearly in the autumn of his career but proved in qualifying at Dundonald that he still has his moments, securing his place with rounds of 70 and 67.
Richard Teder
Will be the first Estonian to compete at The Open, earning his spot in dramatic fashion with a hole-out eagle on the first playoff hole during qualifying at West Lancs. Was fifth at The Amateur Championship.
Christiaan Bezuidenhout
That he has not joined the world’s elite is a complete mystery to me. The South African has every shot in the book and possesses a glorious golf swing.
Martin Couvra
Gifted Frenchman who just missed out on a second DP World Tour victory of the season at the Italian Open, but did enough to secure a first major championship start.
Marco Penge
Hits the ball a mile. After narrowly keeping his card last season he is now a winner and is full of confidence. Needs to learn to harness all that power.
Niklas Norgaard
Open debut at the age of 33 for the big-hitting Norgaard, who in September landed his first DP World Tour title in the British Masters at The Belfry.
Carlos Ortiz
Making his second Open appearance at Royal Portrush this year, having made his major debut at the US Open back in 2016. Hugely underrated.
Thorbjorn Olesen
A hugely underrated golfer who is capable of putting together some wonderful runs of form. Struggling on the PGA Tour this season but don’t rule him out.
Related Content
The Open 2025 Preview, Picks & Analysis
What Makes The Open Golf's Greatest Major Championship
Where The Open at Royal Portrush Will Be Won And Lost
Could These Open Debutants Challenge at Royal Portrush
The oldest & most prestigious major, a trip to The Open is a must for every golf fan. From tickets and transfers to hospitality & golf, Golfbreaks.com can build the perfect package to help you experience The Open in style.
Tags: The Open Championship The Open Royal Portrush
